Brits statuette images from late architect Dame Zaha Hadid unveiled

The first images of Dame Zaha Hadid's Brits statuette have been unveiled.

The British architect began working on the project three months before her sudden death in March this year.

Hadid, whose buildings included the London Aquatics Centre for the 2012 Olympic Games, died aged 65 in Miami following a heart attack.

The statuette to be awarded to winners (Brit Awards/Press Association Images)

Brits chairman Jason Iley said: "We are delighted with the finished statues. Like Zaha, they are innovative and original and have gone well beyond our expectations to create something special that will progress the award into the future."

Zaha Hadid (Ian West/PA)

He has previously told how the Iraqi-born architect told him: "I know exactly how I want to do it. I have a vision for it."

Zaha Hadid Design director Maha Kutay worked on Hadid's original ideas, saying: "Our design expresses Zaha's unwavering belief in progress and optimism for the future and a break from the norm."

A family of five statues - which represent "diversity" - have been revealed - but only one - an abstract image of a woman with her hips to the side - will be given out on the night.

Brit statuettes (Brit Awards/Press Association Images)

Previous designers of the statuette have included artists Damien Hirst and Sir Peter Blake and fashion designer Pam Hogg.

Hosted by Michael Buble, the Brit Awards 2017 with MasterCard take place on February 22 and will be broadcast live on ITV from London's O2 Arena.

The Critics' Choice shortlist will be revealed on Friday and the winner will be announced on Thursday December 8.